Sebastian Inlet, found on barrier islands of central Florida's east coast, was never a natural break in the island chain. Early attempts in 1875 to open a quarter mile channel through the beachside island were quickly resealed by storms and shifting sands. During the early 1900s, Florida legislators okayed the tab for an inlet, pacifying local fishermen and their desires for easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. The permanent inlet is protected with north and south jetty walls. The jetties have been modified over the years and now double as fishing piers. The result, one of the premier fishing zones on the east coast.
   The park's wide variety of amenities keep a half million people entertained throughout the year. With access to the Indian River Lagoon, as well as the Atlantic Ocean, opportunities abound for swimming, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, shelling, sunbathing, canoeing and kayaking. Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area is also a favorite spot for picnicking, clamming, crabbing, boating, bird watching, camping, and simply enjoying the beach and nature.
   With three miles of Atlantic beach, surfers get stoked over one of the most consistent surf breaks in Florida. Another hot surf spot is Monster Hole. The Hole, located about a third of a mile off the beach, offers the ultimate long ride.
   The primitive Ais Indians, some of the area's first known inhabitants, most likely knew nothing about surfing, but they did recognize the bounty found on both sides of the narrow strip of land. More than likely the Ais also enjoyed the tranquil seaside setting and winter's moderate climate just the same as today's visitors.

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